5 Decluttering Challenges That Actually Work
Maybe this summer has gone so fast, and you have not had time to declutter? Or are you staring at your clutter and realizing how much you need to declutter? Perhaps you have tried traditionally tackling your clutter, but need a little challenge? As a Certified Professional Organizer, I’ve seen firsthand how using efforts with more fun and urgency can lead to major transformations in homes and lives. Here are five powerful decluttering challenges that work, especially if you’re ready for a jumpstart or need to build momentum.
10/10 Decluttering Method
This 10/10 challenge comes from Real Simple, and it’s a fantastic way to ease into decluttering without stress. The premise is that you declutter 10 items in 10 minutes. You can choose any space, so no need to stress about where to start. It’s quick, so you can maximize your time with a little effort. You can do this once a day or a few times a week. It is simple and easy to do. Grab a sack and get started.
Reverse Decluttering
Sometimes we need to know what to keep, rather than what to edit. Instead of asking what I should get rid of, flip the plan and ask what I want to keep? This method helps you focus on your priorities as well as what adds value and meaning to your life. For example, when tackling your closet, choose your favorite pieces first, then decide whether the rest deserves space in your life. Reverse decluttering shifts the perspective from what you are losing to what you are keeping. No more guilt for what you are letting go.
30-Day Minimalism Game
Feel like your decluttering will take forever? Choose the 30 Day Minimalist Game to add efficiency to your decluttering. Popularized by The Minimalists, this challenge turns decluttering into a daily practice with a twist. By day 30, you’ll have decluttered 465 items! Enlist a friend to play along and keep it fun and motivating. This challenge works great if you want the support of others, enjoy friendly competition, and need steady progress in a short time. Get started now and before school starts you will be set.
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On day 1, you get rid of 1 item.
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On day 2, 2 items.
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Day 3, 3 items…
As your days go by, and your progress increases, you are excited to see how much space you have created. That builds success and momentum for the future.
Seasonal 30-Day Declutter Calendar
A 30 Day Declutter Calendar keeps you on track to declutter all the spaces in your home in a short time frame. This simple, step-by-step plan reduces clutter without overwhelm. By focusing on one small task each day, you build momentum and see steady progress. It also removes decision fatigue about where to start, creates structure because you are decluttering daily, and makes the process feel achievable.
Timer Challenge
Set a timer and see how much you can declutter in a short burst! This challenge is perfect for busy people who want quick wins. Choose a small space. such as a drawer, shelf, or countertop, and then set your timer for 10, 15, or 30 minutes. Work quickly to toss trash, gather items to donate, and put things back in their place. When the timer goes off, stop and see how much you accomplished. The time limit keeps it manageable and helps you stay focused without getting overwhelmed. You can repeat this challenge daily for ongoing results.
Decluttering doesn’t have to be a dreaded task. These challenges provide structure, clarity, and fun. Whether you’ve got 10 minutes or 30 days, you can create meaningful change in your home and in your daily life by choosing a challenge that works for the way you think and the time you have. Which challenge will you try first?